Tomer Blechman

Fort Greene, Brooklyn

Tomer Blechman’s newest restaurant, Theodora, is the third of Blechman’s holy trinity here in Brooklyn. Miss Ada and Nili have long been beloved neighborhood spots, making Theodora a long-awaited new sibling. The cuisine focuses on Mediterranean flavors: super fresh seafood, pillowy pita made to order, seeded laffa, and of course dips on dips on dips. Their expert contrast in wood-fire grilled breads and zesty, fresh seafood creates a meal you can’t miss.

Full name, age, where are you from?

Tomer Blechman, 46, Ra'anana, Israel

What is your title and where do you work?  

Chef/Owner - Miss Ada, Theodora, and Nili

What inspired you to work in the food industry?

 To nourish people, and have the capability to create something with my hands that affects the way that people think about food and hospitality. 

What is your biggest customer pet peeve?

Entitlement.

What is your most blissful food moment?

 When I get the last bite of the pita that has all the juices in the bottom.

What dish do you want to perfect in the kitchen?
There is no dish that can be perfected, every day of hard work always makes me and others around me better.

If you could shout out a colleague or friend in the industry who would it be and why?

Lena Ciardullo - the Executive Chef at Union Square Cafe, we worked on the line together at Maialino 10 years ago, I respect her as a friend and a chef, we both went on a path of being leaders and we both follow Danny Meyer's philosophy of hospitality.

What is the best food city?

New York City!

How do you relax outside of work?

Spending time with my family, going to Red Hook, spending time by the water.

What is your astrology sign (including moon and rising)?
Libra